Fact Check: Protesters chant 'We want elections!' after eight months of unrest.

Fact Check: "Protesters chant 'We want elections!' after eight months of unrest."

What We Know

Recent protests in Serbia have seen significant participation from citizens demanding early elections. On June 28, 2025, a large demonstration took place in Belgrade, where protesters filled the central Slavija Square and surrounding streets, chanting "We want elections!" This protest was part of ongoing unrest that has persisted for nearly eight months, primarily led by university students who have been vocal against the government of President Aleksandar Vucic, who has been in power for over a decade (Sky News, AP News). The protests were sparked by various grievances, including government corruption and the handling of infrastructure projects, notably following a tragic incident where a collapsed rail station canopy resulted in multiple fatalities (Sky News).

Analysis

The claim that protesters were chanting "We want elections!" is substantiated by multiple credible sources. Reports from both Sky News and the Associated Press (AP News) confirm that during the June 28 protest, demonstrators indeed shouted this phrase as a call for snap elections and an end to Vucic's rule. The protests have been characterized by a significant turnout, with estimates of attendance ranging from 36,000 according to police to as high as 140,000 according to independent observers (Sky News).

The reliability of these sources is strong; both Sky News and the Associated Press are well-established news organizations known for their journalistic integrity. They provide detailed accounts of the events, including the context of the protests, the government's response, and the atmosphere during the demonstrations. The protests are described as a culmination of months of dissent, indicating a sustained public desire for political change (AP News).

However, it is important to note that the Serbian government has characterized the protests as potentially violent and has accused the demonstrators of being influenced by foreign interests, a claim that lacks substantial evidence (Sky News). This adds a layer of complexity to the situation, as it reflects the government's attempts to delegitimize the protests while the public continues to express their demands for democratic processes.

Conclusion

The claim that protesters chanted "We want elections!" after eight months of unrest is True. The evidence from multiple credible news sources confirms that this phrase was indeed a central theme during the protests in Belgrade on June 28, 2025. The ongoing unrest reflects deep-seated frustrations with the current administration and a strong public demand for political reform.

Fact Check: Protesters chant 'We want elections!' after eight months of unrest.